You Recently Received a Letter from a Friend Asking for Advice - IELTS Writing Task 1 Informal Letter

In the IELTS General Writing Task 1, an informal letter question can be given to you in order to assess your proficiency in everyday written communication, like offering advice, seeking suggestions, and sending invitations. 

In an IELTS Informal Letter, the tone and structure plays an important role in getting familiar with the effective strategies for which you need to practice with topics like, 'You Recently Received a Letter from a Friend Asking for Advice.’ Here, you must use a friendly tone since you have already been communicating with the person to whom you are writing to. 

Hence, it is important to understand the purpose of the letter while brainstorming ideas related to the bullet points and use appropriate vocabulary words to write it between 150 and 180 words: 

So, why wait? Let's take a look at three sample answers on the topic 'You Recently Received a Letter from a Friend Asking for Advice’ now!

Structure Breakdown

Question

You recently received a letter from a friend asking for advice about whether to go to college or to try to get a job. You think he/she should get a job.

Write at least 150 words.

Band 8 Sample Answer - “You Recently Received a Letter from a Friend Asking for Advice”

Dear Diego,

Hope you’re doing good! I got your letter yesterday and am glad that you chose me to guide you with your further trajectory in life. I know the platform you are at right now in life has held you in utter confusion. I’ve been through the same phase and can guide you through the decision of either going ahead with your higher education or trying to seek employment.

Diego, I’ve known you since childhood and know well that you won’t enjoy going to college as you’ve always been inclined towards finding a job for yourself and that’s what I’ll suggest you go ahead with for now. Honestly, having work experience and industrial exposure gives you an edge, and you’ll be mature enough in selecting which course to opt for in the meantime.

For now, you should try getting a sales job as that’ll help you handle the industrial pressure and get exposure.

Lots of wishes,
Prakhar Panchbhaiya

Band 9 Sample Answer - “You Recently Received a Letter from a Friend Asking for Advice”

Hi Disha, 

Thanks for your letter. Since yesterday, I’ve been thinking a lot about what you wrote, and honestly, I don’t think a college life would suit you very much. Because, you’re a girl who never really enjoyed sitting in classrooms for long hours. College involves a lot of theory, exams, and pressure. 

I really think getting a job is a good idea for you right now. You’d start earning your own money, gain real-life experiences, and become even more independent. A job would also help you understand what you’re truly great at and what you love, instead of guessing through subjects you may not like.

As for jobs, I think something practical would only suit you. You could look into work in IT, sales, mechanics, graphic designing, or even an apprenticeship in a trading. These roles would match your skills and give you chances to grow.

Whatever you decide, I’ll consistently support you.

Take care,

Preethy. 

In conclusion, exploring different types of letters will not only allow you to learn the format for each, but will also improve your confidence for your test day. Regular practice is necessary to understand the exam setting and find out the areas in which you need improvement, and work towards them. This would help you achieve band 8+ by incorporating the appropriate strategies and learning How to End an Informal Letter to a Friend. Cheers!